At CuddleCo, we’re passionate about supporting parents every step of the way, and that support starts with pregnancy. As a leading UK children’s furniture brand, we understand that preparing for a new arrival can feel exciting, emotional and, at times, overwhelming.
With parents on our team who have children ranging from newborn all the way through to teenagers, we’ve gathered some honest, heartfelt pregnancy self-care tips straight from our own office. These are the small but meaningful things that helped us navigate pregnancy - shared in the hope they’ll help you too.
Whether you’re in your first trimester or counting down the days to your due date, here are 11 self-care tips for pregnancy from the empowering mums at CuddleCo.
1. Make Time to Relax
Pregnancy can be physically and mentally draining, so prioritising rest is key. Take naps when you can, enjoy a warm bath, or treat yourself to a pregnancy massage.
“It’s a great way to feel relaxed in body and mind, even if it feels slightly odd lying on your side instead of your tummy!”
2. Keep Moving with Gentle Exercise
Low-impact movement can help ease pregnancy aches and lift your mood. Walking, swimming, and pregnancy yoga are great options, just check with your midwife first.
“I went swimming when I was heavily pregnant, and when I came out of the pool, I couldn’t believe how heavy I felt. It made me realise just how much my body was carrying every day.”
3. Listen and Learn
One of the best ways to feel empowered is to listen to other parents’ experiences. Try podcasts, books or videos that share real pregnancy stories; it can be incredibly reassuring and helpful.
4. Build Your Support Network
Connecting with others who are going through the same thing can make a big difference. Join an antenatal class, look for local pregnancy groups, or connect with fellow mums-to-be online.
5. Prioritise Sleep and Comfort
A good night’s sleep can be hard to come by, especially in the later months. Invest in a pregnancy pillow, elevate your legs, and adjust your sleep position for better rest.
“Getting a 12ft pillow was my best purchase; it even stayed for a while after pregnancy! It helped me get comfy when my bump made sleep tricky.”
6. Stay Cool (or Warm!)
If you’re pregnant during a heatwave, little things like cooling sprays, ice lollies, or running your wrists under cold water can help. In winter, cosy socks and warm drinks are your best friends.
7. Eat Well and Stay Hydrated
Eating nutritious meals and drinking plenty of water helps you feel energised and well. Experiment with non-alcoholic drinks or mocktails so you can still enjoy social time.
8. Nest and Prepare in Your Own Time
From setting up the nursery to packing your hospital bag, getting organised can help you feel more in control. Do it at your own pace, there’s no pressure.
9. Get a Desk Assessment at Work
If you’re working during pregnancy, make sure your workspace supports your posture. Think ergonomic chairs, footrests and small fans, anything that helps you feel more comfortable at your desk.
10. Be Kind to Yourself
Your body is doing something incredible. Embrace the changes, listen to your needs, and try not to compare yourself to anyone else.
“Don’t put pressure on yourself — you’ll recover in your own time.”
11. Bio-Oil That Belly!
A gentle belly massage with Bio-Oil or bump cream can help with skin elasticity and give you a quiet moment to connect with your baby.
Bonus Tip from the Dads at CuddleCo:
Don’t run out of the cravings. Ever.
Our team of dads had one unanimous piece of advice:
“Keep the snack cupboard stocked - whatever the current craving is, make sure you’ve got enough. Trust us, it’s not worth the 2am dash to the shops.”
Whether it’s salt and vinegar crisps, ice lollies or something a little more niche (gherkins in peanut butter?), those pregnancy cravings are real, and they wait for no one.
Every pregnancy is different!
Every pregnancy is different! What works for one might not work for another. The most important thing is to look after yourself, ask for help when you need it, and trust that you’re doing brilliantly. And when you feel ready to start nesting, you can explore our nursery furniture and accessories to help create a calming space for your little one!
